Crystal Bowersox is one of 12 Chicago street musicians who perform, Sweet Home Chicago. Just days before her audition for American Idol, Crystal was singing for donations on the streets of Chicago and Ohio. Mark Schimmel directed Crystal as she played her guitar and sang without anyone ever realizing just how famous and popular she would become. When all the footage was shot and the 54 audio tracks were being mixed by composer, Gary Fry, a decision was then made to have Crystal be the lead for the video.
This video was shot in eight Chicago locations in one day. A ENG style video crew was used lead by Mark Schimmel - Director, Randy Riesen - DOP and John Mathie - Sound. The video went on the win a Certificate of Merit from the International Chicago Film Festival.

Mark Schimmel is an award winning director of content, commercials, television, short and feature films.

“What separates most directors from truly great directors are the leadership qualities and vision they possess. Present in the moment, I give every ounce of energy and creativity to what’s in front of the camera. Each time that I step onto a set, I display integrity, intelligence and vulnerability. These are critical leadership qualities that inspire the cast, crew and entire production to support my creative vision. A director with a strong positive persona can bring a film to an entirely new level of significance.

I consider myself an emotional storyteller who looks past the norm and digs deep inside to discover what motivates the actors. I nurture actors, providing them with a space to perform at their very best. This means encouraging them when needed but also knowing when to stay out of their way, giving them the freedom and safety to reach deep inside themselves of find the truth of the character they are portraying. Directing is my true calling and I’m consistently inspired to bring my own craft to new heights.” - MS

Mark Schimmel has been directing award winning commercials, television, short and feature films for the past 18 years. His work is conceptually driven and supported by images that communicate with emotion. He’s directed notable actors such as Eric Roberts, Claudia Christian, Rene Auberjonois, Bill Ratner, Lance Barber and Academy Award nominee, Woody Harrelson. One of his many recent accomplishments include directing the 2014 Wrangler Blue Jean commercial campaign featuring George Strait.

Mark Schimmel was born in Chicago. He studied drawing at The Art Institute of Chicago, photography at Columbia College, and completed his BFA at PRATT Institute, New York City. Schimmel is scheduled to complete his MFA in the winter of 2019 with VCFA. Early in his career Schimmel designed movie posters for Miramax Films and was an Imagineer for Walt Disney Productions.